Scripps, XOrbit Share Tech Emmy Honors



The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) has announced that XOrbit and Scipps Networks have been named recipients of a Technology and Engineering Emmy Award for an innovative content delivery system.

The award recognizes Scipps Networks’ implementation of XOrbit’s ProofPositive live-to-air content delivery confirmation system, which instantly validates the correct delivery of content from the cable network’s operations center directly into the viewer’s home.

Scripps Networks, which programs a number of cable networks, including HGTV, the Food Network, DIY Network and Fine Living Network, approached XOrbit to help it meet a growing need to validate the playback of its content. The result was ProofPositive, which identifies particular attributes of the master signal and compares them to signals in more than 200 homes nationwide, without watermarks or signal modifications. If a delivered signal does not match the master broadcast stream, the system automatically e-mails an error notification to the cable network. ProofPositive’s technology adapts to variations by frame analysis using less bandwidth than a dial-up modem, enabling the systems to be placed just about anywhere.

"At Scripps Networks we believe in ensuring the on-air integrity of our networks while pushing the boundaries of technology to enhance the viewing experience for our audience, and that will benefit our businesses," said John Ajamie, senior vice president of broadcast operations and media logistics at Scripps Networks. "It is an honor to be recognized for technological advancements by NATAS and its panel of distinguished industry professionals, and to be supported by XOrbit in attaining our goals."

The Technology and Engineering Emmy Awards--which mark its 60 anniversary this year, will be presented during CES2009 in Las Vegas in January.